Why More Minority Students Should Study Abroad

“We are socially agnostic and do not make admission decisions based on the socio-economic status of the applicant…we are always on the lookout for strong candidates that are a right fit for the school and program regardless of race, colour, gender, religion, disability etc.” My conversation with an Admissions Officer from an Ivy League University revealed starkly how Universities evaluate students based on their strengths and had no prejudices whatsoever against minorities. This attitude levels the playing field for minority students.

Here are my top 5 reasons why more minority students should study abroad:

1. Diversity. Universities outside of India tend to be a melting pot of different cultures. Not only do top classrooms boast students from over 100 countries across the globe, but also students from a broad range of backgrounds including renowned musicians, prominent actors, Olympic winners and members of the armed forces. Minority students interact and learn from individuals from all walks of life, and experience how their varied background also provides valued viewpoints to the classroom. This diversity and exposure allow them to embrace their individuality, rather than shun it as a stigma.
Increasing the under-represented minority base in foreign college programs also has a direct and positive impact in the classroom. For the cohort, learning in a diverse setting teaches you how to think outside the box and exposes you to a wide range of ideas and points of view. Minority students, due to their distinct upbringing, provide varied perspectives and solutions to a problem. Growing minority representation in the program will add to everyone’s educational experience.

2. Financial Aid. India provides many scholarships, financial aid and loan options specifically targeting minority candidates, hoping to ease some of the barriers to entry they may be facing. For example, there is the Padho Pardesh interest subsidy scheme launched by the Central Government. Under this scheme, students who belong to a minority community are eligible for a 100% interest subsidy on an education loan.
In 2015, the Government of Telangana introduced the “Overseas Study Scheme for Minorities” for the benefit of the students belonging to the minority community. Financial Assistance will be sanctioned to 500 minority students/graduates per year to pursue Post Graduate/Doctoral studies abroad as per the guidelines.

3. Employment. Diversity has a positive impact on the workplace as it increases the competitiveness of corporations in the global market. Employers value students who can think critically and also have an international perspective. For minority students looking to return to India, their education abroad places them at an advantage in the domestic job market. For example, students will have a strong professional network available in almost every corner of the world, which can significantly distinguish them from his or her peer group. The connections made during college years have the potential of being not only their life long friends but also future business partners, co-founders, investors, clients, vendors, mentors, and so much more.

4. Competitive Advantage. Colleges abroad are looking at strong grades and test results, but they are also seeking an attribute, skill or experience that sets a student apart from the others. A student that represents cultural diversity will have that advantage.
The colleges will keep the context of a student’s school and background when evaluating them. Thus, the admissions team will favour stories that highlight adversity or positive growth despite the challenges. However, it’s important to note that they are not compromising on their admission requirements. Regardless of minority status, you still need to crack the rigorous admission process and demonstrate why you are the best fit for the school and the program.

5. Pave the path. Many Indian graduates from universities abroad have returned home and utilized their education and experiences to make the most of the opportunities in India and to leave an indelible mark in their field of choice.
When studying abroad, interactions with such a broad range of individuals provides minority students with a different perspective on their status. You realize that the world is flat, and your background does not need to provide any hindrance. As a minority student, you can share your perspective and learning with your community and help pave a strong path forward.

Education is the ultimate social equalize; it provides students with the means and platform to explore options and succeed in any arena. A degree from a top college abroad can instantaneously offset any societal inequalities as long as one is determined. In this scenario, the only ‘minor’ limits are those that are self-imposed.

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